HONOLULU -- More than 1,500 people attended Friday's commemoration conference at the Hawaii Convention Center, where speakers praised Hawaii for its unique culture and pondered the next 50 years.

In her keynote speech to open the conference, Gov. Linda Lingle said Hawaii has made an important contribution to America.

"Most would agree that our diversity and the way we celebrate that diversity is Hawaii's greatest strength. I believe it will be our lasting legacy," Lingle said.

The governor said it took decades and dozens of failed attempts before the statehood bill was passed.

Olympic gold medalist Bryan Clay, a Castle High School graduate, drew a few laughs and the loudest applause when he reminded the audience that the 50th state has produced its fair share of influential people.

"The list includes successful business people, academics, entertainers, athletes, like you know me, as well as the current president of the United States," Clay said.

Looking ahead, one speaker said Hawaii's current push for renewable energy puts Hawaii at the forefront of the green movement.

The focus of the conference was not the last five decades since statehood, but the next 50 years.

"The story of Hawaii's future is yet to be written and you can be the authors of that story," Lingle said.